4:11

Notice the parallel parts that are similar in meaning:

11a
I will guide you in the way of wisdom ;

11b
I will lead you on straight paths.

4:11a–b

I will guide you…I will lead you: The Hebrew verbs used in this verse probably refer to customary guidance/teaching that began in the past and still continues in the present. English versions express this customary action in different ways. For example:

I have taught you (English Standard Version)
-or-
I am guiding you (New Century Version)

the way of wisdom…straight paths: The way of wisdom and straight paths are parallel metaphors that refer to wise, correct, and honest conduct.

In some languages, it will be possible to keep these metaphors. For example:

the path of wise behavior…straight paths
-or-
the road that wise people take…correct paths

The Good News Translation translates the meaning without using these metaphors. It also combines and/or reorders the parallel ideas of “guide” and “lead.” It has:

I have taught you wisdom and the right way to live.

However, in 4:12, the Good News Translation keeps the metaphors of walking and running.

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